Rising Stars: Meet Gabrielle Martin

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabrielle Martin. 

Hi Gabrielle, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started nailedbygee July 5th, 2020. Nails has always been something I’ve been into and loved. I’ve been getting my nails done since I was probably about 13. I went to college for graphic design and graduated in May 2014 and shortly after my daddy was killed in a hit and run in October 2014. That really took a toll on me. I was only 20 at the time so I was really trying to figure out life and how to deal with the loss of a parent at the same time. Fast forward to 2020, covid happened. I finally had the extra money to splurge on nail supplies to get me started and I’ve been in a good place mentally so I thought what a perfect time to practice doing my nails since the salons are closed. I’ve always had a great support system who pushed and motivated me to get started because they know how much I love nails but it just wasn’t my time yet, I had to heal first. Now I’m a year and a half in as a self-taught nail tech but I’m currently enrolled in school to become a licensed nail technician and I’m expected to graduate in May 2022. Doing nails has truly become a passion of mine and I can’t wait to see what the future holds. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Honestly, everything has been easy and flowed naturally and that just lets me know that I’m headed in the right direction and I’m doing what’s meant for me. I am currently working full time as an office manager so that’s been a juggle to give a company 100% also while taking classes so I can build a future for myself but the days are flying by. I’m just trying to stay focused and keep a tunnel vision. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I do nails. I’m most proud of being self-taught, I literally watched one YouTube video and got the ball rolling and the rest is history. I know there’s a thousand nail techs and the career is growing but what sets me apart from others is my work. You can tell when someone is truly passionate about what they do because their work reflects that. I take my time with each set I do and I make sure everything is perfect. My work truly speaks for itself. 

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Rest lol. It’s okay to be hungry and want to grind and give your business 100% but you have to also know that it’s okay to find that balance and give yourself grace. You can’t pour from an empty cup. The clients will still be there. 

Pricing:

• My acrylic full sets with gel polish included starts at $45

Contact Info:

• Email: Naildbygee@gmail.com
• Website: https://naildbygee.as.me/schedule.php
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nailedby.gee/
• Facebook: NailedbyGee